Archive for 2017
First Spin: 2018 Jeep Wrangler

2018 Jeep Wrangler
“Iconic” is kind of an overused term these days, but in the case of the Jeep Wrangler, it’s totally appropriate. The Wrangler is a direct descendant of a bloodline that goes back farther than most any modern-day vehicle can claim. The star-spangled WWII heritage, the long-running (and tumultuous) history, the unmistakable profile and styling details, and, of course, the legendary off-road prowess—it’s all part of the mix.

2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Ultimate AWD in “Iron Frost” metallic grey
2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Ultimate AWD
Class: Midsize Crossover
Miles driven: 367
Fuel used: 20.0 gallons

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Whether by deft planning or stroke of luck, Mitsubishi has found itself in an enviable marketing position.
With the introduction of the new Eclipse Cross compact crossover slated for next spring – and the dropping of the electric i-MiEV and long-running Lancer sedan – Mitsubishi will be fielding a lineup of three crossovers and one car line (the slow-selling Mirage) for 2018. That puts the bulk of its wares in the hot-selling “small crossover” segment.

1986 Oldsmobile Toronado
General Motors can lay claim to two of the most noteworthy examples of automotive downsizing. On the success side is the Impala/Caprice redesign for 1977. Leaner and more fuel efficient, the downsized big Chevys found the proverbial market sweet spot, and sold like crazy to full-size-car shoppers looking for something trimmer than they had been driving (but not too trim).

1959 Shamrock
People can be dismissive of market research, but there are plenty of times when a company needs to take the pulse of potential customers, making certain that they have a handle on that group’s wants and needs.

2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 AWD in Dynamic Sunstone Red (an $800 option)
2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 AWD
Class: Premium Sporty/Performance Car
Miles driven: 206
Fuel used: 11.5 gallons
Due to the overwhelming response to our first two Great Car Grille posts, we felt compelled to share a second list of reader-recommend selections.

2017 Nissan Rogue Sport SV in Palatial Ruby
2017 Nissan Rogue Sport SV AWD
Class: Subcompact Crossover
Miles driven: 336
Fuel used: 13.5 gallons
Six New Additions Highlight Consumer Guide® Automotive’s 2018 Best Buy List
Chevrolet Bolt EV earns Best Buy in model’s inaugural season